CAPTAIN Nathan Jones says several missed shots in front of goal proved costly in Melbourne’s 25-point loss against the Adelaide Crows at Adelaide Oval on Saturday.
The Demons had the same number of scoring shots to the Crows, but were wayward in front of goal, booting 7.13 to Adelaide’s 12.8. Jones said it was an area that would be scrutinised.
“All in all, it was a glass half full [effort], but it’s a tough one to cop when you give that effort and we’ve come away with the same scoring shots. We just didn’t take our opportunities, when we had our chances to gather momentum and put scoreboard pressure on,” he told Dee TV.
“I think that was one of the real positives we can take out of the game. The effort and intensity was probably there for 110 of 120 minute, but it was that patch in the third [quarter] for 10 minutes, when they split us open.
“I think that’s something we’ll review during the week … we’re looking to play more consistently. I think we got a response from our poor efforts last week.
Jones said he couldn’t fault the effort of his team for most of the match, even if he was frustrated not to bring home the four points.
“Post-game, we were disappointed not to get the result and we came over here to win the game,” he said.
“We look at the positives and we’ll take some real confidence from that – particularly with the response … and effort we got for the entire game.
“When we do that, we can be a really good team. But on the flipside, you’ve got to create your opportunities and build scoreboard pressure. We had our chances, but unfortunately we couldn’t execute.”
Overall, Jones said he was pleased his team rose to the challenge that Adelaide threw at Melbourne.
“I was really proud with some of the players’ efforts and there were a few of us who had to respond after disappointing games last week,” he said.
“There are still some areas to improve and moments in the game where I think some guys can go a little bit harder or execute better.
“But all in all, I think we’re making inroads and we’re chasing a result and that’s all we’re after. But in the end we’re disappointed we didn’t come away with a win.”
